Baleba signs for Man Utd as Zirkzee leaves - Carrick's dream end to transfer window

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Matthew Judge | Editor

Manchester United are adding the finishing touches to their transfer business as the summer window prepares to close in a week’s time.

The Red Devils have taken a cautious approach to the market, biding their time in an attempt to find value in what has been an unpredictable landscape.

And United have been successful in that regard, sourcing quality at the right price, even if sections of the fanbase were hoping for more activity.

Here, FootballTransfers takes a look at how United can secure a dream ending to the 2026-27 summer transfer window.

Sign Carlos Baleba

United are set to complete their midfield rebuild with the signing of Cameroon international Carlos Baleba from Brighton and Hove Albion.

The 22-year-old is poised to join Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans by becoming the third central midfielder to move to Old Trafford this summer.

Baleba’s imminent arrival means United will have spent an initial €173million (£148m) on three Premier League-ready midfielders - excellent value in today’s climate.

And United will also boast terrific balance in midfield - with Baleba and Santos competing for the No. 6 role, and Tielemans and Kobbie Mainoo battling for the No. 8 position.

Acquire a left-back

United are believed to be prioritising signing a new left-back before deadline day takes place in England next Tuesday (1 September).

Michael Carrick’s side have been considering the merits of several candidates as they look to secure competition for Luke Shaw.

One name who has popped up on United’s radar in recent days has been Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde, but The Times says a deal is now unlikely.

Various sources understand the 20-time league champions have also ran the rule over Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall and RB Leipzig’s David Raum this summer.

Offload Joshua Zirkzee

One man who could be on his way out of the Theatre of Dreams is Joshua Zirkzee, who is still attracting interest from Serie A giants Juventus.

The 25-year-old has struggled to impress when given a rare opportunity to shine following his move from Bologna in July 2024.

With just nine goals in 75 games for United, Zirkzee’s stock has fallen but a successful loan spell at Juventus could raise his value ahead of next summer.

And United may feel they have enough cover up top, with Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Marcus Rashford capable of deputising for Benjamin Sesko.

Meanwhile, Amad Diallo, Patrick Dorgu and academy star Shea Lacey can provide cover on the flanks this season.

Retain Marcus Rashford

Before United make a final decision on Zirkzee, a lot may depend on the future of England international Rashford.

Speculation continues to swirl regarding the 28-year-old’s future, owing to him spending the last 18 months on loan with Aston Villa and then Barcelona.

However, United officials are understood to be pleased with Rashford’s attitude since returning to Carrington following his World Cup exploits.

In a transfer window which has seen Tottenham Hotspur spend an initial €87m (£75m) to sign Savinho from Manchester City, with the Brazilian having scored two league goals in two seasons, United are unlikely to find a suitable, affordable alternative to Rashford.

And so it makes sense for Carrick’s men to keep hold of Rashford beyond the summer transfer window, especially if the forward is willing to stay.